Can I use my iMac as a monitor for a Mac mini with this?

mondair99 · 08-09-2012, 06:47 AM

Here's the case:

I am purchasing a Mac mini in a few months.

I am trying to entirely prepare myself for when it is shipped to my doorstep.

I am still, however, hesitant to buy a VGA monitor, because I have an iMac that might have the potential to act as a monitor. It is an old iMac that will be replaced by the Mac mini.

This is where you forum members come in. You guys and gals are to tell me whether or not I need to buy a monitor.

My setup:

iMac G5 running 10.5.8 Leopard.

Will be getting:

Mac mini running newest Apple OS X version.

Already have:
Apple USB Keyboard (2 USB ports, 1999 edition)
Just a generic mouse
80gb external hard disk(?...just thought I'd mention it in case it came in handy)

The only reason I doubt VGA2USB will work is the fact that the video source will

1). Leave Mac mini via MiniDisplayPort, from a VGA socket without prongs
2). Exit the MiniDisplayPort dongle into double-ended VGA cable with prongs
3). Enter a VGA2USB device via the double-ended cable
4). USB end is received by the iMac.

That's pretty complicated, I know... but will it work... that's my question. I'm pretty sure it hasn't been attempted, but it would make my day if you actually knew the answer to my question.

~m99

08-09-2012, 06:47 AM	#1
mondair99 Junior Member Join Date: Aug 2012 Posts: 3	Can I use my iMac as a monitor for a Mac mini with this? Here's the case: I am purchasing a Mac mini in a few months. I am trying to entirely prepare myself for when it is shipped to my doorstep. I am still, however, hesitant to buy a VGA monitor, because I have an iMac that might have the potential to act as a monitor. It is an old iMac that will be replaced by the Mac mini. This is where you forum members come in. You guys and gals are to tell me whether or not I need to buy a monitor. My setup: iMac G5 running 10.5.8 Leopard. Will be getting: Mac mini running newest Apple OS X version. Already have: Apple USB Keyboard (2 USB ports, 1999 edition) Just a generic mouse 80gb external hard disk(?...just thought I'd mention it in case it came in handy) The only reason I doubt VGA2USB will work is the fact that the video source will 1). Leave Mac mini via MiniDisplayPort, from a VGA socket without prongs 2). Exit the MiniDisplayPort dongle into double-ended VGA cable with prongs 3). Enter a VGA2USB device via the double-ended cable 4). USB end is received by the iMac. That's pretty complicated, I know... but will it work... that's my question. I'm pretty sure it hasn't been attempted, but it would make my day if you actually knew the answer to my question. ~m99